The Oklahoma legislature, led by the House and Senate budget and appropriations committees, has taken action to ban the State Department of Education from employing public finances for public relations activities.
This decision comes in response to criticisms from taxpayers who believe the Department has been misusing public resources for self-promotion, including advertising, marketing, and promotional ventures.
Despite disagreement from critics who claim that public relations are essential for awareness of educational initiatives, the majority of lawmakers believe the ban is necessary for accountability, transparency, and proper use of taxpayers’ money.
One such critic is Representative Mark McBride, head of the House Education Appropriations and Budget Subcommittee, who expressed disappointment over the Department’s decision to hire a Texas-based video production firm at a cost of $22.5k. The promotional video, intended to bolster the Department’s image, led to widespread dissatisfaction and claims of fund misuse.
The video, which criticises teacher unions and garnered only 3.8k views on YouTube, has been accused of being a “wasteful allocation” which fuels self-glorification rather than supporting student learning and community issues.
The Department of Education also came under fire for paying $30k to a Washington D.C.-based PR firm for press appearances and communications management. While defended by officials claiming it would improve public relations efforts and therefore funding opportunities, many citizens question the necessity of these expenses given the current educational needs.
Superintendent argues in defence of the spending, putting emphasis on the need for expert management of public image amidst the controversy, while also reminding critics that decisions remain within legal parameters.
Despite backlash, the Department maintains these actions are needed for education improvements.
Oklahoma curbs education PR expenditures
They urge the public to focus on the broader picture rather than strictly monetary concerns.
In response to this controversy, lawmakers are attempting to prevent future fund misuses for PR operations through proposed amendments. These seek to clarify prohibited activities and require regular audits and public spending reports to enhance transparency.
These changes, pending approval from Governor Kevin Stitt, could be in effect by July 1st, redirecting public funds from PR to education. This has led to a new Department budget totalling over $3.8 billion, approved by the Senate, as lawmakers strive to support teachers, students, and address parental worries over personal political motivations.
